An apparatus and method for managing power supplied to a portable electrical device includes an electrical connector configured to engage a complementary electrical connector of the respective battery. The portable battery-powered device also includes a selector switch configured to couple the electrical connectors of the plurality of power receptacles in at least one of a series configuration, a parallel configuration, and a combination of series and parallel configuration. The portable battery-powered device further includes an electrical load device including one or more electrical leads coupled to the selector switch. The selector switch is selectable during operation of the portable battery-powered device to provide power to the electrical device from a plurality of battery packs coupled in the at least one of a series configuration, a parallel configuration, and a combination of series and parallel configuration.
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2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first configuration is a parallel configuration, and the second configuration is a series configuration to increase a rotational speed of the portable electrical device.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the first configuration is a series configuration, the second configuration is a parallel configuration to increase an amount of torque generated by the portable electrical device.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein operating a mechanical selector switch comprises operating a mechanical double pole double throw switch.
A mechanical selector switch system is used to control electrical connections in circuits, particularly where multiple input or output paths need to be selectively connected. The problem addressed is the need for reliable, durable switching mechanisms that can handle high-current or high-voltage applications while minimizing contact wear and ensuring secure connections. The invention involves a mechanical selector switch system that uses a double pole double throw (DPDT) switch configuration. This switch type allows for the simultaneous connection or disconnection of two separate circuits, providing flexibility in routing electrical signals or power. The DPDT switch includes two sets of contacts, each capable of switching between two different positions, enabling the selection of different input or output paths. The mechanical operation ensures robust performance, reducing the risk of electrical arcing or contact degradation over time. The system may be used in applications such as industrial control panels, power distribution systems, or telecommunications equipment, where reliable switching is critical. The DPDT configuration enhances versatility by allowing bidirectional switching, making it suitable for applications requiring multiple switching states. The mechanical design ensures durability and resistance to environmental factors, such as vibration or temperature fluctuations, which can affect electronic switches.
6. The portable battery-powered device of claim 5, wherein the mechanical selector switch comprises a mechanical double pole double throw switch.
A portable battery-powered device includes a mechanical selector switch configured to control power distribution to multiple output ports. The mechanical selector switch is a double pole double throw (DPDT) switch, allowing it to simultaneously switch two separate circuits between two different states. This design enables the device to selectively route power from a battery to different output ports or components, such as charging circuits, power outputs, or internal systems, based on the switch position. The DPDT configuration ensures reliable mechanical switching without electronic components, reducing complexity and potential failure points. The device may also include additional features like power management circuits, status indicators, or safety mechanisms to monitor and regulate power distribution. The mechanical selector switch provides a user-adjustable means of configuring the device's power output, enhancing flexibility in various operational scenarios. The battery-powered nature of the device allows for portable use, making it suitable for applications where power routing needs to be adjusted on the go. The DPDT switch ensures robust switching performance, minimizing electrical noise and ensuring stable power delivery to connected devices or systems.
7. The portable battery-powered device of claim 5, wherein each battery of the plurality of batteries comprises a rechargeable battery pack comprising a plurality of rechargeable cells.
8. The portable battery-powered device of claim 5, wherein each battery of the plurality of batteries comprises a rechargeable cell.
9. The portable battery-powered device of claim 5, wherein the mechanical latching device comprises at least one of a friction fit and an interference fit between a power receptacle and the respective battery received therein.
11. The power supply system of claim 10, wherein the mechanical selector switch comprises a mechanical double pole double throw switch.
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July 12, 2019
October 11, 2022
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